Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A user terminal comprising: a communication interface configured to communicate with each of a plurality of controlled devices which are operated based on respective individually set setting values; a user interface configured to receive an adjustment value for controlling the plurality of controlled devices; and a controller configured to adjust each of the setting values based on a ratio which relates to the received adjustment value, and to control the plurality of controlled devices based on the adjusted setting values, wherein the controller is further configured to change the ratio based on a result of sensing a respective environmental quality of each of the controlled devices, so that different ratios are used to adjust each of the setting values.
2. The user terminal of claim 1 , wherein the controller is further configured to calculate an average value based on the setting values, to calculate at least one from among a ratio of the received adjustment value to the calculated average value and a ratio of the received adjustment value to a value which is obtainable by subtracting the calculated average value from a maximum setting value, and to individually adjust each of the setting values based on the calculated at least one ratio.
A user terminal includes a controller that adjusts multiple setting values based on user input. The terminal receives an adjustment value from a user, which represents a desired change to one or more settings. The controller calculates an average value from the current setting values. It then determines at least one ratio: either the ratio of the received adjustment value to the average value, or the ratio of the adjustment value to a value derived by subtracting the average from a predefined maximum setting value. Using this ratio, the controller adjusts each setting value individually. This ensures that adjustments are proportionally applied across all settings, maintaining relative differences while scaling values up or down. The system allows for consistent, balanced adjustments to multiple settings based on a single user input, improving usability and efficiency in managing complex configurations. The approach is particularly useful in devices where multiple related parameters must be adjusted simultaneously, such as audio equalizers, display calibration tools, or network configuration interfaces.
3. The user terminal of claim 2 , wherein the user interface is further configured to display a user interface (UI) window which displays the plurality of controlled devices as a group and displays a collective control object which is usable for collectively controlling operations of the controlled devices, and wherein, when the displayed collective control object is adjusted by a user manipulation, the controller is further configured to determine the adjustment value based on an adjustment status of the collective control object.
This invention relates to a user terminal for managing multiple controlled devices, such as smart home appliances or industrial equipment, through a unified interface. The problem addressed is the complexity of individually controlling multiple devices, which can be inefficient and cumbersome for users. The solution provides a user terminal with a user interface (UI) that groups multiple controlled devices into a single display window. Within this window, a collective control object is presented, allowing users to adjust settings or operations for all grouped devices simultaneously. When a user manipulates the collective control object, the terminal's controller interprets the adjustment status of the object to determine the adjustment value, which is then applied uniformly across all devices in the group. This streamlines control operations, reducing the need for individual adjustments and improving user convenience. The system ensures synchronized control of multiple devices, enhancing efficiency in environments where coordinated device management is required.
4. The user terminal of claim 3 , wherein the UI window additionally displays an individual control object which is usable for individually controlling one device from among the plurality of controlled devices, and wherein, when a lock is set for the displayed individual control object, the controller is further configured to not adjust the setting value of the one device which corresponds to the individual control object for which the lock is set.
This invention relates to a user terminal for controlling multiple devices, addressing the challenge of managing and securing individual device settings within a shared control interface. The terminal includes a display for showing a user interface (UI) window that presents control objects for adjusting settings of multiple controlled devices. Each control object corresponds to a specific device and allows users to modify its settings. The UI window also includes an individual control object that enables users to control one specific device independently from the others. To prevent unintended changes, the terminal allows users to set a lock on the individual control object. When locked, the controller is configured to prevent adjustments to the setting value of the corresponding device, ensuring that its settings remain unchanged regardless of other operations. This feature enhances security and stability by allowing selective locking of individual device controls while maintaining flexibility for other devices. The invention ensures that critical device settings remain protected from accidental or unauthorized modifications, improving system reliability in environments where multiple devices are managed through a single interface.
5. The user terminal of claim 4 , wherein, when the collective control object is adjusted to a minimum, the controller is further configured to adjust each of the setting values to a respective minimum, and when the collective control object is adjusted to a maximum, the controller is further configured to adjust each of the setting values to a respective maximum, and wherein, when a user reset request is received, the controller is further configured to reset each of the setting values which have been adjusted to at least one from among the respective minimum and the respective maximum to the corresponding setting values which had been set prior to being adjusted.
This invention relates to a user terminal with a collective control object for adjusting multiple setting values simultaneously. The problem addressed is the need for a simplified way to manage multiple settings in a device, particularly when users want to quickly adjust all settings to predefined limits or restore them to previous states. The user terminal includes a controller and a collective control object, such as a slider or dial, that allows a user to adjust multiple setting values at once. When the collective control object is moved to its minimum position, the controller adjusts all setting values to their respective minimum values. Similarly, when the collective control object is moved to its maximum position, the controller adjusts all setting values to their respective maximum values. Additionally, if a user requests a reset, the controller restores any setting values that were adjusted to their minimum or maximum to their previous values before the adjustment. This provides a convenient way to manage multiple settings without requiring individual adjustments, while also allowing users to revert changes easily. The invention is particularly useful in devices where multiple settings need to be adjusted frequently, such as audio systems, lighting controls, or industrial equipment interfaces.
6. The user terminal of claim 1 , wherein when each of the setting values has a same value, the controller is further configured to adjust each of the setting values based on an absolute value of the adjustment value.
A user terminal is configured to manage multiple setting values, such as volume, brightness, or other adjustable parameters. The terminal includes a controller that adjusts these setting values in response to an adjustment value, such as a user input or an automated command. When all the setting values have the same value, the controller adjusts each setting value based on the absolute value of the adjustment value. This ensures consistent adjustments across all settings when they are initially equal, preventing unintended variations. The terminal may also include a display for visual feedback and an input interface for user interaction. The controller processes the adjustment value to modify the setting values, applying the absolute value to maintain uniformity when the settings are identical. This approach simplifies user interaction and ensures predictable behavior in scenarios where multiple settings are synchronized. The terminal may be part of a larger system, such as a multimedia device or a smart home control interface, where consistent adjustments are critical for user experience. The invention addresses the problem of inconsistent adjustments when multiple settings are equal, providing a solution that maintains uniformity and improves usability.
7. The user terminal of claim 1 , wherein each one of the plurality of controlled devices comprises at least one from among a lighting device, a sound device, a blind device, and a temperature control device, and wherein each of the setting values comprises at least one from among a target dimming value, a target volume, a blind adjustment status, and a target temperature.
This invention relates to a user terminal for controlling multiple devices in a smart home or building automation system. The system addresses the challenge of managing diverse devices with different control parameters through a unified interface. The user terminal is designed to receive and process user input to adjust settings for various controlled devices, such as lighting, sound, blinds, and temperature control systems. Each device type has specific setting values: lighting devices use target dimming values, sound devices use target volume levels, blind devices use adjustment statuses (e.g., open/closed/partially open), and temperature control devices use target temperature settings. The terminal ensures seamless interaction by mapping user commands to the appropriate device-specific parameters, allowing users to control multiple devices with a single interface. The system simplifies automation by standardizing control inputs while accommodating the unique operational requirements of each device type. This approach enhances user convenience and system efficiency by reducing the complexity of managing heterogeneous devices.
8. A control device comprising: a communication interface configured to communicate with each of a plurality of controlled devices which are operated based on respective individually set setting values, and with a user terminal; and a controller configured to, when an adjustment value for controlling the plurality of controlled devices is received from the user terminal, adjust each of the setting values based on a ratio which relates to the received adjustment value, and to control the plurality of controlled devices based on the adjusted setting values, wherein the controller is further configured to change the ratio based on a result of sensing a respective environmental quality of each of the controlled devices, so that different ratios are used to adjust each of the setting values.
This invention relates to a control device for managing multiple controlled devices, such as HVAC systems, lighting, or other environmental control systems, where each device operates based on individually set setting values. The problem addressed is the need to adjust multiple devices simultaneously while accounting for varying environmental conditions across different locations. The control device includes a communication interface to interact with the controlled devices and a user terminal, and a controller that processes adjustment values received from the user terminal. When an adjustment value is received, the controller modifies each device's setting value based on a ratio derived from the adjustment value. The controller dynamically changes these ratios based on sensed environmental quality data from each device, ensuring that adjustments are tailored to the specific conditions of each location. This allows for coordinated yet individualized control of multiple devices, improving efficiency and comfort. The system avoids uniform adjustments that may be ineffective in varying environments, instead applying different ratios to each device's settings based on real-time environmental feedback.
9. The control device of claim 8 , wherein the controller is further configured to calculate an average value based on the setting values, to calculate at least one from among a ratio of the received adjustment value to the calculated average value and a ratio of the received adjustment value to a value which is obtainable by subtracting the calculated average value from a maximum setting value, and to individually adjust each of the setting values based on the calculated at least one ratio.
A control device for adjusting multiple setting values in a system, such as a motor or industrial process, addresses the challenge of optimizing performance by dynamically modifying individual parameters. The device includes a controller that receives an adjustment value, which may be a user input or an automated signal, and adjusts multiple setting values accordingly. The controller calculates an average value from the existing setting values and determines at least one ratio. The first ratio compares the received adjustment value to the calculated average, while the second ratio compares the adjustment value to the difference between a predefined maximum setting value and the calculated average. The controller then individually adjusts each setting value based on these ratios, ensuring proportional or balanced modifications. This approach allows for fine-tuned control, improving system efficiency and responsiveness. The method ensures that adjustments are distributed intelligently, preventing extreme deviations and maintaining stability. The system may be applied in various domains, including motor speed control, temperature regulation, or process automation, where precise parameter adjustments are critical.
10. The control device of claim 9 , wherein the user terminal is configured to display a user interface (UI) window which displays the plurality of controlled devices as a group and displays a collective control object which is usable for collectively controlling operations of the controlled devices, and wherein, in response to the displayed collective control object being adjusted by a user manipulation, the controller is further configured to determine the adjustment value based on an adjustment status of the collective control object.
This invention relates to a control device for managing multiple controlled devices through a user terminal. The problem addressed is the inefficiency of individually controlling multiple devices, which can be time-consuming and cumbersome. The solution provides a system where a user terminal displays a user interface (UI) window showing the controlled devices as a group. A collective control object is included in the UI, allowing a user to adjust settings for all devices simultaneously. When the user manipulates this control object, the controller determines an adjustment value based on the adjustment status of the collective control object. This enables synchronized or coordinated control of multiple devices through a single interface, improving usability and efficiency. The system may also include a controller that processes user inputs and communicates with the controlled devices to execute the desired operations. The controlled devices could be part of a home automation system, industrial equipment, or other interconnected systems where centralized control is beneficial. The invention simplifies device management by reducing the need for individual adjustments, streamlining the user experience.
11. The control device of claim 10 , wherein the UI window additionally displays an individual control object which is usable for individually controlling one device from among the plurality of controlled devices, and wherein, in response to a lock being set for the displayed individual control object, the controller is further configured to not adjust the setting value of the one device which corresponds to the individual control object for which the lock is set.
This invention relates to a control device for managing multiple controlled devices, particularly in a system where centralized control is desired but individual device adjustments must be restricted. The problem addressed is the need to prevent unintended modifications to specific devices while allowing broader system-level adjustments. The control device includes a user interface (UI) window that displays control objects for adjusting setting values of multiple devices. The UI window also includes an individual control object for adjusting a single device from the group. A locking mechanism is provided to restrict changes to a specific device. When a lock is applied to an individual control object, the controller prevents any adjustments to the setting value of the corresponding device, even if broader system-level changes are made. This ensures that critical or sensitive devices remain unaffected by unintended or unauthorized modifications while allowing other devices to be controlled as needed. The system maintains flexibility in device management while enforcing strict control over selected devices.
12. The control device of claim 11 , wherein, in response to the collective control object being adjusted to a minimum by the user manipulation, the controller is further configured to adjust each of the setting values to a respective minimum, and in response to the collective control object being adjusted to a maximum by the user manipulation, the controller is further configured to adjust each of the setting values to a respective maximum, and wherein, in response to a user reset request, the controller is further configured to reset each of the setting values which have been adjusted to at least one from among the respective minimum and the respective maximum to the corresponding setting values which had been set prior to being adjusted.
A control device is designed to manage multiple adjustable setting values within a system, such as a vehicle or industrial equipment, where these settings influence operational parameters like temperature, speed, or power levels. The problem addressed is the complexity of individually adjusting multiple settings, which can be time-consuming and inefficient, especially when a user needs to quickly set all parameters to their minimum or maximum values. Additionally, users may need to revert settings to their previous states after making extreme adjustments. The control device includes a controller and a user interface with a collective control object, such as a slider or dial, that allows a user to adjust all setting values simultaneously. When the user manipulates the collective control object to its minimum position, the controller adjusts each setting value to its respective minimum. Similarly, when the collective control object is moved to its maximum position, the controller sets each setting value to its respective maximum. If the user requests a reset, the controller reverts any setting values that were adjusted to their minimum or maximum back to their original values before the adjustment. This ensures that users can quickly optimize or reset system parameters without manually adjusting each setting individually.
13. The control device of claim 8 , wherein, in response to each of the setting values having a same value, the controller is further configured to adjust each of the setting values based on an absolute value of the adjustment value.
A control device for managing system parameters includes a controller that adjusts multiple setting values based on an adjustment value. The controller is configured to modify each setting value individually, allowing for independent control of each parameter. When all setting values are equal, the controller adjusts each setting value by the absolute value of the adjustment value, ensuring consistent changes across all parameters. This approach prevents unintended variations when parameters are initially aligned, maintaining system stability. The device may be used in applications requiring precise control over multiple interdependent variables, such as industrial automation, robotics, or process optimization. The controller's ability to handle uniform adjustments when parameters are equal simplifies system tuning and reduces the risk of misalignment during operation. The invention addresses the challenge of maintaining coordinated control over multiple settings, particularly in dynamic environments where parameters must be adjusted in unison to avoid performance degradation.
14. The control device of claim 8 , wherein each one of the plurality of controlled devices comprises at least one from among a lighting device, a sound device, a blind device, and a temperature control device, and wherein each of the setting values comprises at least one from among a target dimming value, a target volume, a blind adjustment status, and a target temperature.
This invention relates to a control device for managing multiple controlled devices in an environment, such as lighting, sound, blinds, and temperature control systems. The problem addressed is the need for a centralized control system that can dynamically adjust settings for various devices based on user preferences, environmental conditions, or predefined schedules. The control device includes a communication interface for receiving input signals from sensors or user interfaces, a processing unit for determining appropriate setting values, and an output interface for transmitting control signals to the controlled devices. Each controlled device, such as a lighting device, sound device, blind device, or temperature control device, receives specific setting values like target dimming levels, volume adjustments, blind positions, or temperature targets. The system ensures coordinated operation of these devices to optimize comfort, energy efficiency, or other performance metrics. The control device may also incorporate machine learning or adaptive algorithms to refine settings over time based on usage patterns or feedback. This approach simplifies user interaction by consolidating control of diverse devices into a single, intelligent system.
15. A driving method which is executable by a user terminal for controlling a plurality of controlled devices which are set, the method comprising: displaying an individual control object via which respective setting values for each of the plurality of controlled devices are individually set; displaying a collective control object which indicates an average value of the respective setting values of the plurality of controlled devices; and when the displayed collective control object is adjusted based on an adjustment value which is received by the user terminal, adjusting the displayed individual control object based on an adjustment ratio which relates to the collective control object, wherein the adjusting the displayed individual control object further comprises changing the adjustment ratio based on a result of sensing a respective environmental quality of each of the controlled devices, so that different adjustment ratios are used to adjust each of the setting values.
This invention relates to a method for controlling multiple devices through a user terminal, addressing the challenge of efficiently managing individual and collective settings across multiple devices. The method involves displaying individual control objects for each device, allowing users to set specific values for each. Additionally, a collective control object is displayed, representing the average of all individual device settings. When the collective control object is adjusted, the individual control objects are updated based on an adjustment ratio tied to the collective value. The adjustment ratio is dynamically modified based on sensed environmental conditions of each device, ensuring that different adjustment ratios are applied to each device's settings. This approach enables precise, context-aware control over multiple devices, improving usability and adaptability in varying environments. The method ensures that adjustments are tailored to each device's specific conditions, optimizing performance and user experience.
16. The method of claim 15 , wherein the adjustment ratio includes at least one from among a ratio of the adjustment value to an average value which is calculated based on the respective setting values and a ratio of the adjustment value to a value which is obtainable by subtracting the calculated average value from a maximum setting value.
This invention relates to a method for adjusting setting values in a system, particularly where multiple setting values are used to control a process or device. The problem addressed is the need to dynamically adjust these setting values in a balanced and efficient manner, ensuring optimal performance without excessive or inconsistent modifications. The method involves calculating an adjustment ratio to determine how much a setting value should be modified. This ratio can be based on either the ratio of an adjustment value to an average of the respective setting values or the ratio of the adjustment value to a value derived by subtracting the average from the maximum possible setting value. The adjustment ratio helps standardize the adjustment process, ensuring that changes are proportional and aligned with system constraints. By using this approach, the method ensures that adjustments are made in a controlled and predictable manner, preventing over-adjustment or under-adjustment of individual setting values. This is particularly useful in systems where multiple parameters must be balanced, such as in control systems, signal processing, or optimization algorithms. The method improves system stability and performance by maintaining consistent and proportional adjustments across all relevant setting values.
17. The method of claim 15 , wherein the adjusting the individual control object comprises, in response to each of the respective setting values of the plurality of controlled devices having a same value, adjusting the individual control object based on an absolute value of the adjustment value.
This invention relates to a method for adjusting control objects in a system managing multiple controlled devices. The method addresses the challenge of efficiently modifying control settings when multiple devices share the same setting value, ensuring consistent and predictable adjustments across the system. The method involves monitoring the setting values of a plurality of controlled devices and determining when these values are identical. When all devices share the same setting value, the method adjusts an individual control object based solely on the absolute value of an adjustment value, rather than relative differences between devices. This approach simplifies the adjustment process by eliminating the need for comparative analysis when settings are uniform, reducing computational overhead and ensuring uniformity in control responses. The method may be part of a broader system that includes generating adjustment values based on user inputs or automated processes, as well as applying these adjustments to control objects that influence the operation of the controlled devices. The adjustment may involve modifying parameters such as power levels, operational states, or other configurable settings, depending on the application. By focusing on absolute adjustments when settings are uniform, the method enhances system efficiency and reliability in scenarios where synchronized control is required.
18. The method of claim 15 , further comprising setting a lock for the individual control object, and wherein the adjusting the individual control object comprises refraining from adjusting the individual control object for which the lock is set.
This invention relates to a system for managing control objects in a graphical user interface (GUI), particularly in environments where multiple users or processes may interact with shared control elements. The problem addressed is the risk of unintended modifications to control objects when multiple users or processes attempt to adjust them simultaneously, leading to conflicts or data inconsistencies. The system includes a method for adjusting individual control objects within a GUI, where each control object represents a configurable element such as a slider, button, or input field. The method involves detecting a request to adjust a control object and determining whether a lock is set for that object. If a lock is active, the system prevents adjustments to the locked control object, ensuring that only authorized or intended modifications are applied. Locks may be set by a user, an application, or an automated process to temporarily restrict access to a control object while it is being modified or validated. The system also includes mechanisms for setting and releasing locks, allowing controlled access to shared control objects. This ensures that adjustments are performed in a coordinated manner, reducing conflicts and maintaining data integrity. The method may be applied in collaborative software environments, multi-user applications, or systems where automated processes interact with GUI elements. The invention improves reliability and consistency in GUI-based interactions by preventing concurrent, unauthorized modifications to control objects.
19. A driving method which is executable by a control device for controlling a plurality of controlled devices, the method comprising: receiving, from a user terminal, an adjustment value for controlling the plurality of controlled devices; adjusting each of a plurality of setting values which are individually set for a respective one of the plurality of controlled devices based on a ratio which relates to the received adjustment value; and controlling the plurality of controlled devices based on the adjusted setting values, wherein the adjusting comprises changing the ratio based on a result of sensing a respective environmental quality of each of the controlled devices, so that different ratios are used to adjust each of the setting values.
This invention relates to a control system for managing multiple devices based on user input and environmental feedback. The system addresses the challenge of uniformly adjusting settings across multiple devices while accounting for varying environmental conditions. A control device receives an adjustment value from a user terminal, which represents a desired change in operation for a group of controlled devices. Instead of applying the adjustment uniformly, the system adjusts individual setting values for each device using a ratio derived from the adjustment value. The ratio is dynamically modified based on sensed environmental quality data from each device, ensuring that adjustments are tailored to local conditions. For example, if one device operates in a noisier environment, its setting may be adjusted more aggressively than others. This approach allows for coordinated control while optimizing performance for each device's specific environment. The system ensures that user adjustments are applied intelligently, improving overall efficiency and responsiveness.
20. The method of claim 19 , wherein the adjusting comprises calculating an average value based on the plurality of setting values, calculating at least one from among a ratio of the received adjustment value to the calculated average value and a ratio of the received adjustment value to a value which is obtainable by subtracting the calculated average value from a maximum setting value, and individually adjusting each of the plurality of setting values based on the calculated at least one ratio.
This invention relates to a method for adjusting a plurality of setting values in a system, particularly where precise calibration or optimization is required. The problem addressed is the need to dynamically adjust multiple interdependent settings in a way that maintains proportional relationships while incorporating user or system-provided adjustment inputs. The method involves receiving an adjustment value for a specific setting and calculating an average value from the existing plurality of setting values. It then computes at least one ratio: either the ratio of the received adjustment value to the average value, or the ratio of the adjustment value to a value derived by subtracting the average from a predefined maximum setting value. Using this ratio, each of the plurality of setting values is individually adjusted proportionally. This ensures that adjustments are applied consistently across all settings while accounting for the relative position of the adjusted setting within the range of possible values. The approach is useful in systems where maintaining balanced or proportional adjustments is critical, such as in control systems, signal processing, or calibration routines. The method avoids abrupt changes and ensures smooth transitions when modifying multiple settings simultaneously.
21. The method of claim 19 , further comprising, in response to the adjustment value being received from the user terminal, determining whether each of the plurality of setting values has a same value, wherein the controlling the plurality of controlled devices comprises, in response to a determination that each of the plurality of setting values has a same value, adjusting each of the plurality of setting values based on an absolute value of the received adjustment value.
This invention relates to a system for controlling multiple devices with synchronized settings. The problem addressed is the difficulty in managing multiple devices that require coordinated adjustments, such as lighting, temperature, or audio systems, where individual adjustments must be synchronized to maintain consistency across all devices. The method involves receiving an adjustment value from a user terminal, which is then used to modify setting values for a plurality of controlled devices. The key improvement is the ability to determine whether all setting values are identical before applying the adjustment. If they are, the system adjusts each setting value by the absolute value of the received adjustment, ensuring uniform changes across all devices. This prevents inconsistencies that could arise from independent adjustments. The method also includes generating a control signal to apply the adjusted setting values to the devices, ensuring synchronized operation. This approach simplifies user interaction by allowing bulk adjustments while maintaining uniformity, which is particularly useful in environments like smart homes or industrial automation where coordinated control is essential. The system enhances efficiency by reducing the need for individual device adjustments and minimizing user effort.
22. A control system of a first controlled device, comprising: a plurality of controlled devices configured to operate based on individually set setting values; and a controller configured to, when an adjustment value for controlling the plurality of collected devices is received from a user terminal, adjust each of the setting values based on a ratio which relates to the received adjustment value, and to control the plurality of controlled devices based on the adjusted setting values, wherein the controller is further configured to change the ratio based on a result of sensing a respective environmental quality of each of the controlled devices, so that different ratios are used to adjust each of the setting values.
This invention relates to a control system for managing multiple controlled devices, such as HVAC units, lighting systems, or other environmental control systems, where each device operates based on individually set setting values. The system addresses the challenge of coordinating adjustments across multiple devices to maintain consistent environmental conditions while optimizing energy efficiency and user comfort. The control system includes a controller that receives an adjustment value from a user terminal, such as a thermostat or mobile app, to modify the operation of the controlled devices. Instead of applying the adjustment uniformly, the controller adjusts each device's setting value based on a ratio derived from the received adjustment value. This allows for proportional adjustments across devices, ensuring coordinated control. Additionally, the controller dynamically changes the adjustment ratios based on sensed environmental conditions, such as temperature, humidity, or air quality, for each device. By using different ratios for different devices, the system can fine-tune individual settings to maintain optimal environmental quality while responding to real-time conditions. This adaptive approach improves energy efficiency and user comfort by avoiding over- or under-adjustment of any single device.
Unknown
January 2, 2018
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